You worked hard in college, landed your first job and now you find yourself “underemployed”– working at a job that doesn’t fully utilize your skills. You are bored at work and are looking for additional training from your employer. Now what?

First, assess your situation compared with the broader market:

41% of college grads Say They are “underemployed”

63% say they need more training

77% of new grads expect their employer to provide formal training

48% received formal training from their employers

Your situation is not unique according to new research conducted by Accenture (NYSE: ACN). If you feel “underemployed,” you are not alone.

Next, explore what, if any, training opportunities are available through your employer. Don’t be disappointed if you there is no training or insufficient training available. The survey reveals that employers are not investing in training for new professionals.

Finally, create your own professional development plan. There are many resources available for free or minimal cost that will greatly improve your skills and value as an employee. Here is a short list of possible action steps:

This is an enlightening and helpful post. The situation is worse than most people realize and knowledge is power. I particulary like that Jeff includes suggestions to learn and grow in the absence of corporate training.

About Jeff Chapski

Jeff Chapski has coached and mentored hundreds of college students and recent graduates as they started their first jobs and launched their careers. Recalling the important skills and lessons he learned early in his own career, Jeff started writing a blog at Career-ology.com to help new professionals succeed at work. Read more...

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